Image by David Peterson from Pixabay
Since February 24, 2022, Russia’s choice of war with Ukraine has resulted in millions of people (on both sides) being killed, wounded, displaced, or forced to seek safety abroad as refugees. The situation continues to physically and spiritually affect everyone, near and far.
Throughout the centuries, the Church has always been attacked in one way or another. This is not unique, and peace is a relative term to the outside world. It’s surely not a coincidence that the 2020 Pandemic (with its nearly 2 years of restrictions for public worship), was a foreshadowing to the reeling world of yet more sorrow.
Orthodox Churches are doing all they can to help alleviate the suffering Ukrainians during this fratricidal war, remembering God’s promise, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”
On the eve of the third anniversary of this war, Metropolitan Onuphry of Ukraine asked the world’s Orthodox Christians to pray for peace. After Liturgy, yesterday, our little parish prayed a Molieben – a supplication for Peace:
O Lord Jesus Christ our God, bulwark destroying enmity, Who hast granted true peace to Thy people, Who hast called peacemakers the sons of God! We pray unto Thee: bless those who seek after true peace and do labour for its sake. Do Thou enlighten the minds and hearts of all who embark upon this path of God-pleasing peace. Make wise those in power, and strengthen the will of the rulers of our people; enlighten their minds that with wisdom, discernment, and great care they might labour for the creation of this longed-for peace. By the grace of Thine All-Holy Spirit, do Thou grant that peace might be worked in all people, not only on our lips, but in very deed; that orphans and widows might be comforted, that they might no longer weep, but rejoice, beholding this awaited peace. Soften the hearts of the embittered, and grant that they might in meekness seek after harmony and love. Bless all men, teaching them to understand and fulfill Thy will for the salvation, love, peace, and unity of all men. Send down Thy Heavenly blessing upon every land where Christians dwell, upon the authorities, the armed forces, and all your people, through the intercessions of Thy Most Pure Mother and all Thy saints. For Thou art our Peace, and unto Thee do we send up glory, together with Thine Unoriginate Father, and Thine All-Holy and Good and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. ~ Priest’s prayer at end of Molieben For Peace
His Eminence Metropolitan Mark of Berlin and Germany of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia states that the Russian Orthodox Church is being negatively affected by the fratricidal war in Ukraine, and should be immediately stopped. When asked, “Should the Russians pull out of Ukraine?” He responded: “Is that a question? Yes, definitely! And completely.” When asked his view on the war, Metropolitan Mark answers plainly: “I consider this war a crime.” Metropolitan Mark is certain that the war will change the Russian Orthodox Church, “and unfortunately not for the better.”
… I ask that the hostilities be ceased immediately and that President Putin put an end to the military operations. As Orthodox Christians we condemn violence and aggression… ~ Metropolitan Tikhon Orthodox Church of America and Canada Statement
We’re Not Alone ~ Dr. Vassa Larin (Rassaphore nun and liturgiologist)
…There is no greater sin than war. ~ St. Sophrony the Hagiorite
The Church is not political. We should not discuss politics in Church, and we’re TOLD NOT to discuss politics in Church.
However, people are people, and unfortunately (on various social media platforms), some have heard personal, political opinions stated publicly, supporting this war – by a person (people) in certain position(s) of authority within the Church. The resulting spiritual repercussions create irreparable pain, confusion, and crisis of conscience… causing both laity and the general public to trip head-first over these verbal stumbling blocks, skinning the bare and bruised knees of their souls.
The Church is NOT part of that. The Church CANNOT be part of that. Nor, can it ever accept silencing the Voice of Truth for the sake of “unity”.
Meanwhile, we Pray for Peace.
We Hope for Peace.
We Persevere for Peace with Prayer and Forgiveness, and doing what we need to, while loving each other, for Christ’s sake.
And… we focus intently upon the Church’s services and Holy Sacraments, BECAUSE Jesus Christ is always present at the Divine Liturgy!
Everything else, is of this world.
Lord have mercy!